Teenagers in Wisconsin and across the country are often known for making impulsive decisions. Some of these rash decisions can have major, life-changing results. Due in part to the physiological development of an adolescent brain, teens may be completely unaware that their actions can have severe consequences. In some cases, this information is only realized after a tragic incident occurs.
A young boy found out the implications of his actions while recovering from injuries that he sustained in a serious DUI car accident. Although the 19-year-old boy was the actual cause of the accident, he faces charges of gross vehicular intoxicated manslaughter after he is discharged from the hospital.
Police officials are warning others to be extremely careful after consuming alcohol. This incident is proof that the results of making inappropriate choices after drinking alcohol can be catastrophic.
The incident occurred Saturday night when the young man hit another vehicle head-on, close to an intersection. He was said to have been under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred. Speed was also reported to have been a factor in the accident.
As the boy swerved into oncoming traffic, he collided with a car, instantly taking the life of the 32-year-old driver. The 56-year-old passenger sustained injuries from the accident.
A split second decision can have a life-long impact. A DUI conviction can lead to driver’s license suspension, fines and jail time. If another person is killed or injured as a result of the DUI accident, the driver may face a felony conviction or an intoxicated manslaughter charge. A reputable criminal defense lawyer may lend invaluable advice to those facing severe penalties from a DUI.
Source: KTVU, “19-year-old man facing manslaughter charges after deadly DUI crash,” Cristina Rendon, Mar. 23, 2014